Spitfire brooch from a silver 3d bit

[Katharine]

Today I was shown a lovely little brooch. It was a spitfire formed from an old silver 3d bit folded in half and then each side folded back up to make the wings. It had then been filed to shape, complete with cockpit shape and tail. All coin markings had been filed off, had I not been told the story I would never have guessed its origin. On close inspection I could see the double layer of metal in the fuselage.

My friend's father had made it during the war, apparently he made several for various girlfriends. Did he get the idea himself or did lots of airmen make them? Has anyone else seen such a treasure?

[midget]

I asked my sister about this (WAAF from 1939-1946) and she said that noone had ever made such a thing for her, nor had she heard of it. She did tell of chain bracelets made from 3d bits (or sixpences if the lads were feeling rich). I left her feeling jealous of those who had received the Spifires!

[Katharine]

My friend is trying to find out from her father whether he designed it or not. She is a work colleague so I won't see her again for more than a week. Your sister did miss out on a little beauty, Maggie!